Frequently Asked Questions

A: If Richland County, Ohio is under a level 3 snow emergency at 9:00am or later, the Reformatory will be closed Tours. If level 3 is standing or reported at 4:00 pm or later, that days evening events will be canceled. Otherwise, the Reformatory will be open for all scheduled events.

Q: Is it possible to change a participant name after we have already signed up for a ghost hunt?

A. Yes, please let the registration table know upon arrival of the substitution. Tickets are non-refundable. We will not issue a refund for any reason.

Q: Is the Ohio State Reformatory really haunted?A: Many people have experienced things that cannot be explained. We invite you to come to the Reformatory and see for yourself.

Q: How many people are on a public ghost hunt?A: We take approximately 100 people per hunt.

Q: What time does it start and end?A: Check-in starts at 6pm. Access to the building begins at 7pm. Everyone must be exiting the building by 3am.

Q: Are we locked in the building or on grounds during the hunt?A: No. You are free to exit the building and smoke, get fresh air, go to your car, etc. However, once you drive out of the gate, your hunt is over for the night. The gate will be closed and locked to other people coming in.

Q: If the website states that a ghost hunt is sold out, is it really sold out?A: YES.

Q: "I know the website says that the Ghost Hunts are sold out, but is there any way you can fit 2 more people in?"A: Perhaps. It never hurts to ask!

Q: Do you keep a cancellation list for sold out ghost hunts?A: We typically do not know of cancellations until the hunt is underway but please email us if you wish.

Q: "Can I just show up on the night of a Ghost Hunt, just in case there are any cancellations, and be able to get in on the hunt?"A: No. We do not accept walk-ins for ghost events.

Q: Are the ghost hunts guided or can I wander around on my own?A: At 7pm, you will be given a rules and regulations speech followed by a guided tour. After that, the lights are turned off and you are on your own.

Q: Does everyone in my group have to fill out a license agreement?A: Yes.

Q: The website states that no one under age 18 is allowed on public ghost hunts, is this true? What if I bring a parent?A: Yes this is true. There are NO exceptions to this rule.

Q: Does the Ohio State Reformatory have modern restrooms?A: Yes. We have a newly built, modern restroom facility outside the building as well as new restrooms in the center of the structure. (Note: The toilets and sinks inside the cells DO NOT WORK!)

Q: Is there a roof on the building?A: Yes.

Q: Are there a lot of stairs in the building?A: Yes.

Q: Are there any events scheduled at the Reformatory at the same time as the Ghost Hunt?A: No.

Walk the same halls as history's most infamous prisoners. Immerse yourself into the foundation that formed The Shawshank Redemption. Whether you're hunting for the paranormal or simply looking to tour the beautiful architecture, you can find it here at The Ohio State Reformatory.